Dushanbe, Tajikistan - 21.05.2013 - The co-Chairman of Bill and Melinda Foundation, Mr. Bill Gates, says he is proud of the work the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) is doing to save lives in Muslim countries.
Mr. Gates who spoke via a recorded video, told the audience attending the special session on Innovation for Economic Development during the 38th Annual Meeting of the Islamic Development Bank in Dushanbe, that together we must be innovative in solving the challenges that we face.
“Health and agriculture are the cornerstones for lifting people out of poverty. I thank Dr. Ali and the IDB Board of Governors for their foresight. It is because of your generosity that we will save lives in Islamic countries”, he added.
Mr. Gates expressed appreciation on the partnership between IDB and his foundation in their attempt to eradicate polio.
The session on innovation which featured other prominent speakers like Professor Jeffrey Sachs, Adviser to the UN Secretary General on Millennium Development Goals, was attended by the members of IDB Board of Governors, and key Executives of the Islamic Development Bank.